Evaluation of platelet function by flow cytometry

Platelet function in whole blood can be comprehensively evaluated by flow c ytometry. Flow cytometry can be used to measure platelet reactivity, circul ating activated platelets, platelet-platelet aggregates, leukocyte-platelet aggregates, procoagulant platelet-derived microparticles, and calcium flux . Clinical applications of whole blood flow cytometric assays of platelet f unction in disease states (e.g., acute coronary syndromes, angioplasty, and stroke) may include identification of patients who would benefit from addi tional antiplatelet therapy and prediction of ischemic events. Circulating monocyte-platelet aggregates appear to be a more sensitive marker of in viv o platelet activation than circulating P-selectin-positive platelets. Flow cytometry can also be used in the following clinical settings: monitoring o f GPIIb-IIIa antagonist therapy, diagnosis of inherited deficiencies of pla telet surface glycoproteins, diagnosis of storage pool disease, diagnosis o f heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, and measurement of the rate of thrombop oiesis. (C) 2000 Academic Press.